US Bans Red Dye No. 3, but Questions Remain About Safety of Other Artificial Food Colorings
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of red dye No. 3, a synthetic color additive used to give foods and beverages a cherry-red color, citing concerns over its potential link to cancer. However, many experts are now questioning the safety of other artificial food colorings, including red dye No. 40, yellow dyes Nos. 5 and 6, blue dyes Nos. 1 and 2, and green dye No. 3.
Red dye No. 3 was found to cause cancer in rats more than 30 years ago, and the FDA’s decision to revoke its authorization was made after a 2022 petition by advocacy organizations and individuals citing this research. However, experts say that cancer is not the only potential health threat to consider when it comes to artificial colorants, and that there are other reasons why the FDA should take another look at its regulation of red dye No. 40 and other artificial food colorings.
Red dye No. 40, for example, has been considered a healthier alternative since it hasn’t been extensively associated with cancer in animals. However, experts say that it may still pose health risks, particularly for children. A 2021 study found a potential link between red dye No. 40 and accelerated immune system tumor growth in mice, and another study found that the dye contains benzene, a known carcinogen.
Other artificial food colorings have also been linked to potential health risks. Blue dye No. 1 has been linked with developmental delays, behavioral difficulties, and inhibited nerve cell development in animals, while blue dye No. 2 has led to an increased incidence of tumors in rats. Yellow dye No. 5 may negatively affect the mood or behavior of sensitive children, and both yellow dyes Nos. 5 and 6 have been found to be contaminated with the cancer-causing chemical benzidine or other carcinogens.
Experts say that the FDA should reconsider its regulation of artificial food colorings, particularly in light of new evidence and concerns about their potential health risks. The agency is currently reviewing its approach to regulating food dyes, and is considering prioritizing chemicals for safety review.
In the meantime, consumers can take steps to avoid consuming artificial food colorings. The FDA recommends reading ingredient lists and avoiding products that contain these dyes. However, experts say that this can be a challenging task, particularly for consumers who are not familiar with the different names used to refer to artificial food colorings.
The FDA is also considering alternatives to artificial food colorings, such as natural colorants derived from plants and animals. These alternatives may be a safer and more sustainable option for consumers, and could help to reduce the risk of health problems associated with artificial food colorings.
Ultimately, the ban on red dye No. 3 is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to ensure the safety of artificial food colorings. The FDA should continue to review its approach to regulating these chemicals, and consumers should be aware of the potential health risks associated with artificial food colorings.
